What condition is indicated by hip pain, limping, and decreased internal rotation in a 7-year-old male?

The presentation of hip pain, limping, and decreased internal rotation in a 7-year-old male is indicative of Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. This condition is characterized by avascular necrosis of the femoral head, leading to pain and altered biomechanics in the hip joint. The decreased internal rotation is particularly noteworthy, as it reflects the limitations in hip movement often seen in this condition.

Children with Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease typically present with hip or groin pain, which may be referred to the knee, and exhibit a limp due to pain during ambulation. Over time, the disease can progress to affect the shape of the femoral head, and early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

The other conditions mentioned have different symptomatology and implications. Transient hip synovitis usually presents with hip pain and a limp but often has a more acute onset and typically shows more pronounced symptoms related to inflammation without the specific internal rotation deficits seen in Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease. Osteomyelitis could involve similar complaints but is characterized by fever and systemic illness, which are not present in this case. Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a condition that is often detected earlier